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The New Semester: Being Mindful of our Health

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Ottawa chapter.

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With the dawn of 2013, there is much talk of a “fresh start” and a “new beginning”. New goals and resolutions have been made with increased vigor in maintaining these goals and meeting them. As students, a large number of goals most likely involve losing the freshman 10, getting back to your pre-holiday weight (see previous articles for tips!), or even something as simple as starting to go to the gym. These goals are admirable and what better time than now to start living an active lifestyle? With a whelp of Her Campus resources (check out how to run your best, train for a marathon, and keep fit while cramming), you’re set!

However, as much as 2013 is a fresh start, for collegiettes, it is the mid-way point in our academic school year. It is as much a new beginning as it is a continuation of the 2012-2013 school year. Basking in the post-holiday glow of sleeping in, no deadlines and a party (or four!) here and there, it can be hard to bring ourselves to face the “back-to-school-mindset”. Add in the colder and shorter winter days and we face conditions ripe for winter apathy or burning out.  Maintaining a balance between body and mind has never been more important to ensure Winter 2013 success.

So in addition to those get-fit goals, keep in mind resolutions that will ensure sound mental health. Take advantage of campus resources offered by uOttawa’s Student Academic Success Service (SASS) and the many health outlets offered by uOttawa Health Service, such as the Health Promotion team, located at UCU 203. The vast number of resources can be tricky to navigate but with the Her Campus Health & Lifestyle guide, you’re more than ready to take on the new term.

Student Academic Success Service

The many services include student mentoring, academic writing help, career counseling, and counseling and coaching services. The counseling services are open Monday – Friday from 8:45am – 4:30pm and are free for registered students. Counseling services often include an initial and brief assessment session and counselors can help you address issues regarding stress, relationships, academics and even identity. For long-standing counseling, the team may be able to refer you to outside services. For more information on SASS services, visit their site.

University of Ottawa Health Services (UOHS)

The UOHS suite is an all-encompassing service, offering assistance and advice regarding drugs and alcohol, sexual health, nutrition, global health and mental health. Through the UOHS, you can find a doctor and register with them here at uOttawa, or take advantage of their events for healthy minds through the Health Promotion team (UCU 203). Why not pop by to see how you can get involved? Take advantage of their events and be sure to check out the uoCal often for updates and new events. For those interested, the UOHS along with SASS is brining back the pups from the popular pet therapy event every alternate Thursday from January until April. Dogs Tundra and Rusty Bear will be waiting for you in UCU 211 on Thursdays to help you de-stress and take a breather from work. For a list of specific times and dates, check out the event page.

Along with the great uOttawa resources, it is important to remember to take some time to unwind, away from campus if necessary. Indulge in a new hobby, take a coffee break to simply enjoy the coffee, go on Bellini dates with the girls (Milestones, anyone?), go for walks, skate at City Hall… the possibilities are endless. Enjoy the freedom and time that being a student has to offer and hang in there.

Don’t forget, we are half way there! Lets give it one more push till the long sunny days of summer. Make this term your best yet!

 

Picture Credits:

http://thatswhathappened.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/new-year-2013-beach-wallpaper-361.jpg?w=620

http://blog.manitobaharvest.com/files/2012/12/new-years-resolution-apple.jpg

www.gazette.uottawa.ca

www.chuckei.com

 

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